Inclusive connection for Bathers Way takes shape

Community members received a sneak peek of City of Newcastle’s plans for the next stretch of Bathers Way at a meeting of the project's newly renewed Community Reference Group this week.

Plans are in development to transform the section of the Bathers Way shared path between Strzelecki Lookout and South Newcastle Beach, creating a more accessible pathway through the heritage-listed King Edward Park.

Bathers Way is a flagship project and tourist drawcard for the city, linking our iconic beaches of Merewether, Dixon Park, Bar Beach, Newcastle and Nobbys.

The planned upgrade will include renewal of King Edward Park's amenities building and aims to improve the connection between the lawn surrounding the iconic Victorian rotunda and the much-loved Garside Gardens.

A significant feature of the project is the construction of an Aboriginal art installation, which will educate path users on the Aboriginal significance of the site, with an Expression of Interest for artists to be called later this year. Improved viewing areas with shade and seating will make for a more comfortable day out for visitors.

Delivering a continuous, inclusive path that makes use of the amazing views and respects the site's heritage is a priority for City of Newcastle, with feedback from the community an important aspect of the design process.

Earlier this year community members were able to express their interest in joining a renewed Community Reference Group dedicated to this section of Bathers Way, and on Thursday evening the group met for the first time to introduce them to the project and view initial progress to build upon an existing concept layout for the site.

Feedback from the group will inform the continued development of the concept design ahead of broader community consultation later this year.